About Gophers
Gophers are small burrowing rodents that can cause significant damage to yards and gardens. They belong to the family Geomyidae and are known for their extensive tunneling systems. These creatures are commonly found in North and Central America, and there are around 35 known species of gophers.
What are gophers?
Gophers are herbivorous mammals that primarily feed on plant roots, shrubs, and grasses. They are known for their underground burrows, which they use for shelter, storage of food, and protection from predators.
What do gophers look like?
Gophers resemble small, stocky rodents with stout bodies and short legs. They typically measure around 5-14 inches in length and have small eyes and ears. Gophers have strong claws on their forelimbs, which are used for digging tunnels.
Where do gophers live?
Gophers are commonly found in open habitats such as grasslands, meadows, and agricultural fields. They prefer well-drained soils and are more active during the spring and fall seasons.
Why are gophers bad for my yard?
Gophers can cause extensive damage to yards and gardens due to their tunneling activities. These tunnels can disrupt plant root systems, leading to the withering and death of vegetation. Additionally, gophers may feed on the roots of desirable plants, further impacting the overall health and appearance of the yard.
What benefits do gophers bring to the ecosystem?
While gophers can be detrimental to yards, they also play a role in the ecosystem. Gophers create tunnels that improve soil aeration and water drainage. Their burrowing activities can also aid in the mixing of organic matter within the soil, promoting nutrient cycling.
Identifying Gopher Damage
Signs you have a gopher problem
There are several signs that can indicate the presence of gophers in your yard. These include:
- Mounds of fresh soil near tunnel entrances
- Visible gopher tunnels or runways
- Wilting or dying vegetation
- Plants being pulled underground
- Exposed roots
How to tell apart gopher, mole, and vole damage
While gopher damage may appear similar to that caused by moles and voles, there are some distinguishing characteristics to look out for. Gophers create distinctive mounds of soil near tunnel entrances, whereas moles leave raised surface ridges. Voles, on the other hand, often create surface runways and may feed on the bark of trees and shrubs.
Gopher Control Methods
There are several natural methods you can employ to control gophers in your yard:
1. Underground fencing
Installing underground fencing around your yard or garden can help prevent gophers from burrowing into the area. Use 1/4-inch hardware cloth or similar materials and bury it at least 2 feet deep, ensuring it extends above ground to deter gophers from climbing over.
2. Protect underground cables
If you have underground cables or wires in your yard, ensure they are encased in protective conduit to prevent gophers from chewing through them.
3. Traps
Trapping can be an effective method for reducing gopher populations. Place spring-loaded traps near active tunnel entrances and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper placement and usage.
4. Flooding
Flooding gopher tunnels can help drive them out of your yard. Locate an active tunnel and block any secondary exits. Then, flood the main tunnel with water, forcing the gophers to evacuate.
5. Plants as repellents
Some plants have natural repellent properties that gophers find unpleasant. Consider planting varieties such as castor beans, daffodils, or marigolds as a deterrent.
6. Ultrasonic repellents
Ultrasonic repellent devices emit high-frequency sound waves that are disruptive to gophers. These devices can be placed in the yard to discourage gophers from settling in the area.
7. Attracting predatory animals
Encouraging natural predators like owls, hawks, or snakes can help control gopher populations. Providing suitable habitats, such as nest boxes for birds or brush piles for snakes, can attract these predators to your yard.
8. Live traps
If you prefer a humane approach, you can use live traps to capture gophers and release them into a suitable habitat away from your property. Check local regulations regarding relocation of wildlife before attempting this method.
9. Alternative humane methods of control
There are non-lethal methods available, such as sonic repellers, underground barriers, or even introducing predator urine, that can deter gophers from your yard without causing harm.
10. Natural lawn treatments
Applying organic lawn treatments or using natural pest control products can help deter gophers by making your yard less attractive to them. Consult with a gardening expert for appropriate options for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can natural predators help eliminate gophers?
Natural predators like snakes, owls, and hawks can help control gopher populations by hunting them as a food source. Encouraging these predators to your yard through suitable habitats can aid in gopher population management.
How can gophers damage my yard?
Gophers can damage your yard by creating extensive tunneling systems that disrupt plant root systems. They may also feed on desirable plants, leading to their decline and death.
How to find a gopher’s main tunnel
To locate a gopher’s main tunnel, look for mounds of fresh soil near tunnel entrances. The main tunnel is typically deeper and wider than the secondary tunnels and may have multiple entrances.
Are there any risks to other animals or the environment when drowning gophers?
The use of drowning as a method to control gophers can potentially harm other animals, particularly if the water source is not controlled. It is essential to consider the potential negative impacts to the environment and take necessary precautions.
Is drowning a gopher legal?
The legality of drowning gophers may vary depending on local regulations and guidelines. It is advisable to check with local authorities or animal control agencies to ensure compliance with applicable laws.
Helping Your Yard Recover
Tips for lawn recovery after gopher damage
After successfully controlling gopher populations in your yard, you can aid in the recovery of your lawn by following these tips:
- Fill in gopher tunnels and mounds with soil to level the surface.
- Reseed or replant areas where vegetation has been damaged or killed.
- Water and fertilize the affected areas to promote healthy regrowth.
- Maintain a regular lawn care regime, including mowing and weed control, to prevent further damage.
Gopher Control Myths
Myth Buster: The 5 Best Ways to NOT Kill Gophers
There are several common myths and misconceptions regarding gopher control. Here are the top five gopher control methods that are ineffective:
- Using bubble gum or poison peanuts
- Planting lavender or daffodils as repellents
- Using mothballs or ammonia as deterrents
- Filling tunnels with car exhaust fumes
- Installing spinning or vibrating devices
These methods have not been proven to effectively control gopher populations and may even be harmful to other animals or the environment.
